8. Learn How to Defend Yourself

The Chinese Hawaiian Kenpo Academy NYC in the East Village has been offering free self defense classes, or “SMASH! Class,” to New York City women for the past 20 years. The classes teach proper punching and kicking techniques as well as techniques for taking down an attacker. Sifu Jack, a former bodyguard, US Marine, and competitive martial artist, teaches the class and shares the defense knowledge he has gained throughout the years.

Women 14 and older are invited to attend as many times as they like. The class is free, but the Academy asks that participants make a one-time donation to the school by purchasing a CHKA t-shirt for $25. Classes are offered every Tuesday & Thursday, 7pm – 8:30pm